Padres may be perfect landing spot for ace left-hander to bolster fraying rotation

Amidst all the changes set to hit the starting rotation, it is noteworthy to mention the fact that the Padres are suitors for the top free agent starting pitcher on the market, Framber Valdez. The southpaw has two All-Star appearances, Cy Young Award votes, and a World Series Championship to his name.

2025 was a down year for Valdez by his standards, as he posted a 3.66 ERA over the course of 192 innings pitched. He commands one of the league’s most effective sinkers, which is a key reason for him ranking in the top 3% in ground-ball rate, inducing grounders nearly 60% of the time.

Ace left-hander could be the Padres’ missing rotation piece

The way Valdez gets his outs would be a perfect fit for the Padres’ infield, as Xander Bogaerts and Manny Machado provide excellent defense on the left side of the infield. Not to mention that Petco Park is ranked as the third most pitcher-friendly ballpark in MLB, sitting behind only Fenway Park (Boston) and T-Mobile Park (Seattle).

With Dylan Cease and Michael King almost certainly finding new homes for 2026, A.J. Preller is going to evaluate every aspect of the market for starting pitching, addressing it as the biggest area in need of improvement.

“The core foundation, in terms of the position-player group and the bullpen, is there,” Preller said. “Starting pitching is a clear area of need.”

San Diego will retain Nick Pivetta through the 2026 season, after which he will be able to opt out of his contract. Pairing him with Valdez would make for one of the league’s best one-two punches, as Pivetta was seen by many as the team’s ace.

The one issue with Valdez is that he is commanding a little more than $33 million per year, which is around 70% of San Diego’s available payroll. While starting pitching is by far the most dire need, it is important to keep in mind that the team is also likely in the market for a new first baseman, as Luis Arráez and Ryan O’Hearn may be out the door.

While signing the top pitcher on the market is enticing, it goes without saying that they might be better off going in another direction, as Preller will need to fill spots on the right side of the infield.